The Syracuse Police Chief has extra time to train for his New York State certification.

The state's Division of Criminal Justice Services gave Chief Kenton Buckner one more year. He already finished 386 hours of training, including defensive tactics, driving and fire arms testing.

Now, he needs to complete the physical fitness test and then 160 hours of field training.

He says he's been training for the physical portion and is confident he will complete the test.

During this time, he will continue his role as police chief. He says his top priorities include reducing property and violent crimes as well as keeping the community engaged.

Buckner says he doesn't know when he'll complete the certification, but now he's in a better position to do so.

"I can actually get through the workouts now without passing out and feeling like we're making progress with that,” said Buckner. “Any of you that tried to get into shape, it's not easy. I don't try to hide that or walk away from it. I think it's difficult but certainly reachable."

"I didn't hire the Chief based on how many push-ups he can do or fast he can run a mile and half," said Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh. “I brought him in based on his experience, based on what he thought was important for the police department and for the community, and that's what he's delivered on."

Walsh also says the state law allows him to keep Buckner as chief whether he passes the certification or not. The certification just maintains his status as a sworn officer.